Top 9 Theatre Arts Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, Theatre Arts courses are offered at several institutions, covering various aspects such as performance, direction, production, and design. Here are a few examples:

Theatre Arts Courses In South Africa

University of Cape Town (UCT) – Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance
- Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 50-60% in English. Admission also requires an audition and/or an interview. Background in drama or theater is beneficial.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – BA in Dramatic Arts
- Requirements: NSC with at least 60% in English and a good pass in other subjects. Applicants may need to submit a portfolio or attend an audition. Practical experience in the arts is an advantage.
Rhodes University – Bachelor of Fine Arts (Drama)
- Requirements: NSC with a minimum of 50% in English. Students must demonstrate talent through auditions, and experience in drama can strengthen the application.
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Diploma in Performing Arts
- Requirements: NSC with English at 50% or above. Auditions and interviews are often required, focusing on the student’s performance abilities and understanding of theater.

Stellenbosch University – BA in Drama and Theatre Studies
- Requirements: NSC with at least 50% in English. Auditions or interviews may be required to assess the applicant’s suitability. Prior experience in performing arts can be advantageous.
- Curriculum Highlights: This course covers acting, directing, writing, and technical production. There’s a strong focus on both practical and theoretical components.
AFDA – The School for the Creative Economy – Bachelor of Arts in Live Performance
- Requirements: NSC or equivalent with a pass in English. Admission includes an interview, and a background in drama or live performance is helpful.
- Curriculum Highlights: AFDA’s course emphasizes acting for screen and stage, with modules in performance, voice training, movement, and screenwriting. AFDA is industry-oriented, preparing students for careers in film, television, and stage.
University of Pretoria – BA in Drama and Film Studies
- Requirements: NSC with at least 50-60% in English and an overall pass mark of at least 70%. Auditions and/or interviews may be required, particularly for specialized modules.
- Curriculum Highlights: Students explore performance, directing, screenwriting, and film studies, with options to focus on theater or film. The program is well-rounded, offering both creative and analytical skills.
Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Diploma in Drama Studies
- Requirements: NSC with passes in English, typically at 50% or above. Auditions are required to gauge the student’s potential for acting and performance skills.
- Curriculum Highlights: The program includes practical courses in acting, voice, movement, and theater production, as well as theory modules in theater history and dramatic literature.
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – BA in Drama and Performance Studies
- Requirements: NSC with passes in English and a general good academic record. Auditions or interviews may be required, depending on specific program demands.
- Curriculum Highlights: This course offers a broad study of drama, from acting and directing to writing and stagecraft. The program also emphasizes community engagement and socially relevant theater

Requirements Of Theatre Arts Courses In South Africa

The requirements for Theatre Arts courses in South Africa vary by institution and level of study (certificate, diploma, or degree). Here are common requirements:

General Admission Requirements:

Undergraduate Level
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with a bachelor’s pass.
- Minimum requirements in relevant subjects such as English (often a high score is needed).
- A portfolio or audition to demonstrate talent and skills in performing arts may be required.
Postgraduate Level
- Relevant undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts, Performing Arts, or related fields.
- Submission of a research proposal (for academic master’s programs).
- Audition or portfolio review for performance-based programs.

Additional Requirements:

Proficiency in English (for non-native speakers, TOEFL or IELTS may be needed).
Interview with faculty in some institutions.
Experience in theatre, drama, or related fields is advantageous but not always required

Fees Of Theatre Arts Courses In South Africa

The fees for Theatre Arts courses in South Africa can vary depending on the institution, the level of study, and the duration of the program. Here’s a general overview:

Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance or similar: R30,000 – R70,000 per year at universities like the University of Cape Town (UCT) or the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).

Diplomas and Certificates

Theatre Arts Diplomas: R10,000 – R35,000 per year at institutions such as Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) or private colleges.
Short courses or workshops: R2,000 – R20,000, depending on the duration and content.

Postgraduate Degrees

Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate programs in Theatre Arts: R25,000 – R60,000 per year, depending on the institution and level of research involved

Career Opportunities Of Theatre Arts Courses In South Africa

Theatre Arts courses in South Africa open doors to a variety of creative and professional career opportunities. Here are some potential career paths for graduates:

1. Performing Arts

Actor/Actress: Work in theatre productions, television, films, or commercials.
Voice Actor: Contribute to animated films, audiobooks, advertisements, or dubbing projects.
Dancer/Choreographer: Perform or choreograph for stage productions, music videos, or live events.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles

Director: Lead and manage theatrical or cinematic productions.
Playwright/Scriptwriter: Write scripts for stage, screen, or other media.
Producer: Oversee the business and organizational aspects of productions.
Lighting, Sound, or Set Designer: Specialize in technical aspects of production.

3. Education and Training

Drama Teacher/Lecturer: Teach drama in schools, universities, or workshops.
Theatre Education Specialist: Develop programs to introduce theatre to communities or schools.

4. Arts and Culture Management

Arts Administrator: Manage theatre companies, cultural events, or arts organizations.
Event Coordinator: Plan and manage live events or festivals.

5. Writing and Criticism

Theatre Critic/Journalist: Write reviews or analysis for media outlets.
Content Creator: Develop creative content for online platforms related to theatre and performance.

6. Community and Social Work

Community Theatre Practitioner: Use theatre to address social issues and empower communities.
Drama Therapist: Apply theatre techniques in therapeutic settings to help individuals or groups.

7. Entrepreneurship

Independent Artist: Create and produce original works for the stage or digital platforms.
Theatre Company Owner: Start a production company to create performances or manage talents.

8. Film and Television Opportunities

Casting Director: Select talent for film, TV, or theatre productions.
Screen Actor: Perform in local or international film and TV productions.

9. Public Relations and Media

Media Consultant: Represent theatre productions or artists in public relations.
Cultural Content Producer: Create documentaries or media content about arts and culture.

Growing Opportunities in South Africa:

Theatre Arts graduates may find increasing opportunities in areas like:

Heritage and Cultural Tourism: Creating performances that showcase South Africa’s rich culture.
Digital Theatre: Producing content for streaming platforms or virtual audiences.
Festivals: Working in renowned events like the National Arts Festival in Makhanda.

These careers are highly versatile, allowing individuals to work freelance, as part of a company, or even internationally